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Law vocabulary · Latin Legal Terms

In camera

Meaning in law, with examples

/ɪn ˈkæmərə/adverbAdvanced term

In law, in camera means: A Latin phrase meaning 'in private', describing a hearing or part of a hearing held without the public and the press present.

In Turkish: kapalı duruşmada, kamuya kapalı olarak, gizli oturumda

How it is used

Courts 'sit in camera' or 'hear evidence in camera' to protect children, national security information or trade secrets. In English civil procedure 'in private' is now more common. In US practice, 'in camera review' means the judge reads a document privately to decide whether it must be disclosed.

Example sentences

  1. The child's evidence was heard in camera.

  2. The judge reviewed the disputed documents in camera before ruling on privilege.

Common collocations

  • heard in camera
  • sit in camera
  • in camera hearing
  • in camera review
  • hearingA meeting of a court or tribunal where the parties or their lawyers present arguments or evidence on a particular issue.
  • courtroomThe room in a court building where hearings and trials take place, with places for the judge, the parties, their lawyers, witnesses and the public.
  • attorney-client privilegeThe rule that confidential communications between a lawyer and client made for legal advice are protected, so the client cannot normally be forced to reveal them.
  • ex parteA Latin phrase describing an application or order made by one party without the other side being told or present, usually in urgent cases.

More terms: Latin Legal Terms

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This page explains English vocabulary for learners. It is not legal advice.